Natural breast augmentation offers more than just an increase in breast size. It is a favored option for many women seeking to enhance their self-esteem and body image. Whether dealing with naturally smaller breasts or a loss of volume due to weight loss or aging, this procedure can significantly boost confidence and body satisfaction.

Benefits of Breast Augmentation Surgery

Women who choose breast augmentation frequently report high levels of satisfaction, noting a marked improvement in their body image and self-esteem. This transformative procedure is among the most popular cosmetic surgeries, providing life-changing benefits and a renewed sense of confidence.

Understanding Breast Augmentation Surgery

Breast augmentation addresses various concerns, including volume loss from pregnancy, weight loss, or underdeveloped breasts, medically known as hypoplastic breasts. The surgery involves placing silicone or saline implants under the breast tissue and chest muscle to enhance size, shape, and projection. Typically performed under anesthesia, patients can return to most routine activities after surgery with the support of a post-surgery bra.

Alternatively, autologous fat grafting offers a more natural enhancement by transferring fat from another body area via liposuction to the breasts. This method utilizes the patient’s tissue, reducing complication risks and achieving a more natural appearance.

Ideal Candidates for Breast Augmentation

Ideal candidates are women seeking to enhance their breast volume and projection while maintaining good breast shape. Those who have lost volume due to weight loss or breastfeeding can also benefit, provided their overall breast shape and nipple position remain intact. For women experiencing sagging or drooping breasts, a breast lift, with or without implants, may be recommended. Breast augmentation can also correct asymmetrical breasts or nipples, enhancing symmetry and proportions for a more aesthetically pleasing result.

Choosing the Right Implants

Patients can choose between saline and silicone implants:

Saline Implants: These have a silicone shell filled with a sterile saltwater solution, FDA-approved for women aged 18 and above. Benefits include lower cost, harmless absorption by the body if ruptured, adjustable post-insertion for symmetry, and smaller incision requirements.

Silicone Implants: Filled with silicone gel and FDA-approved for women aged 22 and above, these implants feel more natural and are less prone to rippling or wrinkling. They come prefilled and may require larger incisions.

Selecting the right implant size involves considering body type, existing breast tissue, desired look, and anatomy. Implants are measured in cubic centimeters (cc), and the same size can look different in women with varying body types. Consultation with a skilled plastic surgeon, like Dr. Franck, ensures the ideal implant size and volume for the patient’s body, providing natural and harmonious results.

Autologous Fat Grafting: A Natural Alternative

For those preferring not to use implants, autologous breast augmentation, or fat grafting, transfers fat from areas like the abdomen or thighs to the breasts. This method offers natural-looking results with minimal risk of rejection or allergic reaction. Though not all transferred fat will remain, fat grafting can complement traditional implants, enhancing cleavage and overall breast appearance.

Selecting a Qualified Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Franck, a Cornell and Columbia-trained plastic surgeon, board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, specializes in breast surgery. With his extensive knowledge and meticulous approach, Dr. Franck ensures safe and successful outcomes for patients seeking to restore breast volume and shape.

The Breast Augmentation Procedure

Performed under general anesthesia, the surgery can take between one to three hours, depending on additional procedures like a breast lift. In cases of severe asymmetry, the surgery may take longer. When initial breast shape is aesthetically pleasing and symmetrical, the procedure can often be completed in under an hour.

Surgical Steps:

1. Incision: Made under the breast, around the nipple, or in the armpit, depending on factors like implant type and desired size.
2. Implant Placement: A pocket is created under the breast tissue or chest muscle, and the implant is inserted and adjusted for symmetry.
3. Closing the Incision: Closed with sutures or surgical tape, patients then move to recovery.

Recovery and Aftercare

Initial recovery typically takes one to two weeks, with a gradual return to routine activities. Pain and discomfort are usually minimal. Patients should avoid strenuous activities, wear supportive bras, and attend follow-up appointments for optimal healing.

Minimizing Scars

Common incision methods include the inframammary (under the breast), periareolar (around the areola), transaxillary (in the armpit), and transumbilical incisions. Dr. Franck prefers the inframammary incision for its lower complication risk and natural concealment in the breast crease, ensuring minimal and inconspicuous scarring.

Choosing breast augmentation in NYC with Dr. Franck provides patients with a trusted expert dedicated to achieving natural and satisfying results. Whether opting for implants or autologous fat grafting, Dr. Franck’s personalized approach ensures each patient’s unique needs and desires are met, leading to enhanced confidence and a renewed self-image.